Prohibitions imposed for Ilocos Sur special poll

MANILA, Philippines -  Starting April 28, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) will impose some prohibitions in the first district of Ilocos Sur in relation to the special poll to be held there on May 28.

The Comelec will hold a special election in the district to find a replacement for former congressman Ronald Singson who was convicted of drug trafficking by a Hong Kong court last February. 

Singson was sentenced to 18 months in jail, prompting the House of Representatives to strike him out from its roster.

In Resolution No. 9169, the Comelec said that from April 28 to May 27, “issuance of appointments, promotions, creation of new positions, filling of new positions, or giving salary increase in government offices, agencies or instrumentalities” shall be prohibited under the Omnibus Election Code.

The Comelec added that “construction of public works, delivery of materials for public works and issuance of treasury warrants or similar devices for future undertaking chargeable against public funds” and fundraising through “dances, lotteries and cockfights,” among others, are also not allowed during this period.

The poll body set the election period from April 28 to June 7 during which a number of “prohibited acts” will be in effect.

These include alteration of territory of a new polling precinct and establishment of a new precinct; carrying of firearms; transfer or detail of officers and employees in government offices, including public school teachers; and the use of bodyguards or security personnel by candidates whether or not they are members of the police, the military and other law enforcement agencies.

Those who wish to run may file their certificates of candidacy from May 9 to 13 but they can campaign only from May 14 to 26.

During the campaign period, the Comelec said giving donations or gifts in cash or in kind is now allowed.